L-carnitine (levocarnitine, LK) is a natural compound derived amino acids, which is synthesized in the human and animal organism in the liver and kidneys. L-carnitine plays an important role in metabolism: it is involved in the transport of fatty acids and in lipid metabolism, has an antioxidant effect, stimulates cell immunity, improves digestion and restores the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract with gastritis and pancreatitis.
However, the molecule of carnitine exists in two forms (optical isomers): L-carnitine and D-carnitine. In contrast, useful for the organism of animals and humans L-carnitine, D-carnitine has no biological activity, competes with L-carnitine and disrupts its synthesis in the body.
Since carnitine is used in the manufacture of drugs for animals, feed supplements, and even foods, there is a need to separate useful and harmful forms of this substance. However, in Russia there is no standardized methodology for the separation and quantitative determination of L - and D-carnitine. Create a method – the purpose of the new research work of the fgbi "VGNKI", implemented on the basis of the Test center companies.
A new method of the fgbi "VGNKI" will be based on high performance liquid chromatography. This method will allow you to identify optical isomers of carnitine.
In 2019 the scientific staff of the fgbi "VGNKI" optimize sample preparation and conduct the validation testing methodology for subsequent evaluation.
For reference:
According to the research of the First Moscow state medical University. I. M. Sechenov, the inclusion of L-carnitine in the diet lowers total cholesterol and triglycerides and helps to eliminate functional disorders of the nervous system.
The need for L-carnitine is an individual and grows at the mental, physical and emotional stress. Unlike most of the known vitamins, there is no approved norms of consumption.
The main source of L-carnitine are meat and dairy products. Internal synthesis of carnitine in the human body is not always fully meets the needs in it.
Translated by service "Yandex.Translation"